Hello and Welcome!

I’m Maria, a NY and NJ State licensed clinical social worker, born and raised in Manhattan.

My Story

I have worked with children and families for more than 30 years, beginning when I was 15 years old. Over the course of my social work career, I have been employed by the City of New York in child welfare and have worked in the nonprofit sector as a social worker in a family shelter, a forensic social worker at a nonprofit law firm, and a psychotherapist for individuals ages five and older at a community health center.

My academic journey began at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, where I earned both a B.A. and M.A. in Forensic Psychology. Later, in 2011, I decided to pursue social work at Fordham University, where I discovered that this profession felt like “home” and aligned with my purpose.

Since then, I’ve committed myself to helping people create meaningful change, drawing from both my professional experiences and personal growth. In 2021, I was featured in Latinx/e in Social Work, a publication highlighting the experiences and perspectives of Latinx therapists.

How I work

When I began offering individual psychotherapy during the COVID-19 pandemic, I discovered the power of connecting one-on-one. Since then, I’ve deepened my practice through specialized training and a strong commitment to evidence-based care. I believe therapy is most effective when clients are ready and willing to engage in the process, invested in making meaningful change. My approach blends structure with flexibility, allowing us to focus on what matters most to you. To put this into action, I use a blend of therapeutic modalities, including:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps identify and shift unhelpful thought patterns.

  • Grief Counseling: Supports navigating loss with compassion and healing.

  • Strengths-Based, Solution-Focused Therapy: Builds on your unique resources and goals.

  • Inner Child Work: Encourages self-discovery and emotional healing.

  • Motivational Interviewing: Guides change through curiosity and collaboration.

In our work together, I’ll engage, educate, and empower you to create meaningful change. Sessions often include humor, metaphors, and visual examples—plus practical tools you can apply between sessions. My goal is to help you feel supported while building confidence in your own ability to grow.

What Keeps Me Grounded

Outside of my practice, I make it a priority to care for my own well-being. I find joy and balance through:

  • Spending time with loved ones

  • Enjoying solitude and quiet reflection when needed

  • Learning and staying curious as a lifelong student

  • Volunteering and giving back to my community

  • Traveling and experiencing new cultures

  • Moving my body through Latin dancing, walking, and workouts

  • Nurturing my spirituality and self-awareness

These practices keep me centered, so I can show up fully for the people I work with.

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